Sites and Buildings
Example of Plantation Houses
St Nicholas Abbey- one of the oldest surviving plantation houses, now a museum and rum distillery
Bajan Cuisine blends are influenced by which cuisines?
African, British and Caribbean cuisine
What is Calypso?
Calypso originated from African musical traditions and was used as a form of storytelling and social commentary. Today, it remains popular, especially during Crop Over.
Main Events of Crop Over Festival
Calypsonians compete in the Pic-O-De-Crop competition.
Foreday Morning Jump-Up (a night parade with paint and powder).
Grand Kadooment Day (a massive costumed parade with soca music).
What are Ring Games? Give an example
Ring games are traditional children’s games that involve singing and dancing in a circle.
Example: "Brown Girl in the Ring" is a well-known ring game.
Define Plantation Houses
Grand colonial-era homes built by wealthy sugar plantation owners during the 17th and 18th centuries.
What are the traditional cooking methods?
roasting, frying and slow-cooking
Cultural significance of Calypso
Calypso music serves as a voice for the people, addressing politics, humor, and social concerns.
What is the Crop Over Festival?
Crop Over is Barbados’ largest and most famous festival, originating in the colonial era as a celebration marking the end of the sugar cane harvest. Today, it features music, dance, and elaborate costumes.
Cultural Significance of Ring Games
These games promote social interaction and preserve oral traditions.
Cultural Significance of Plantation Houses
Plantation houses symbolize
1. Barbados’ colonial past,
2. the sugar industry, and
3. the history of enslaved Africans who worked on plantations.
Made with cornmeal and okra, served with seasoned flying fish. Which dish am I?
Cou-cou and flying fish (national dish)
Example of Calypsonian
The Mighty Gabby, a famous Barbadian calypsonian, uses his music to address social and political issues.
Cultural significance of Crop Over
Crop Over is a time of national celebration, cultural expression, and economic activity, attracting thousands of tourists.
Define Stick Licking
Stick licking is a traditional martial art similar to fencing, brought to Barbados by enslaved Africans.
Define Chattel Houses
Small, movable wooden homes originally built by freed slaves and plantation workers. They feature a raised foundation and steep roofs to withstand hurricanes.
What are pudding souse, macaroni pie and fish cakes made of?
Pudding & Souse- Pickled pork served with steamed sweet potato pudding
Macaroni Pie- A cheesy, baked pasta dish, often served with fried fish or chicken
Fish cakes- Deep-fried balls of seasoned fish and flour, popular as street food
What is Spouge? Example of Spouge bands
A uniquely Barbadian genre of music developed in the 1960s by Jackie Opel, a Barbadian musician. It blends elements of ska, calypso, R&B, and soul, creating an upbeat and rhythmic sound.
Example: The Draytons Two and The Merrymen helped popularize spouge alongside Jackie Opel.
Describe Landship & its cultural significance
The Landship is a unique Barbadian cultural tradition that mimics the British Royal Navy’s movements through dance. Performers, dressed in naval-style uniforms, perform synchronized drills to the beat of tuk music.
Cultural Significance: The Landship represents the blending of African traditions and colonial influences, symbolizing strength and unity
Cultural Significance of Stick Licking
It showcases African survival techniques and remains an important aspect of Barbadian cultural heritage.
Cultural Significance of Chattel Houses
represent the resilience and adaptability of Barbadians, especially the working class. They remain an important part of the island’s architectural heritage.
Cultural significance of Food
Food plays a major role in Bajan hospitality, family gatherings, and celebrations like Crop Over.
Cultural Significance of Spouge
Spouge is a source of national pride and a reflection of Barbados’ musical creativity. Though it is less popular today, it remains an important part of the island’s musical heritage.
Describe Masquerade performances
Masquerade performances involve traditional African-inspired costumes and dance, often seen during festivals.
Cultural Significance of Masquerade Performances
Masquerade preserves African heritage and is an important part of Bajan folk culture.